Intro to APIs Using Python | Washington, D.C.

About this class

Application Programing Interfaces (APIs) are what enable one application to seamlessly communicate with other applications. APIs are the reason Uber is able to automatically load Google Maps. In fact, we’re in the midst of an API revolution: Salesforce made more than $1.5 billion from selling their API services. FourSquare's location and venue API receives more than 75 million requests per day.

In this 2.5-hour workshop, we’ll discuss the fundamentals of working with APIs leveraging Python. Because Python is fundamental to our work, we’ll discuss the basics of data structures and working with the Pandas library. By the end, you’ll have knowledge of what an API is, how it can provide value to you, and a use case example.

You’ll have gained the skills necessary to enter a submission into the DC Michelin Guide Challenge.

Takeaways

• Have a clear understanding of how APIs work, and why they are increasingly prevalent
• Know how the HTTP protocol works
• Understand the basics of loading and manipulating data in Python, particularly JSON
• Gain first-hand experience using your very first API

Prereqs & Preparation

• Some level of programming experience helps, but not required.
• Consideration of how you’ll submit an entry to the Michelin Guide Challenge – this workshop is particularly for those seeking technical skills requisite to compete.